Freshwater

Freshwater, a remarkable first book, delves into the bizarre sensation of being a broken person. It revolves on Ada, a young Nigerian lady who was born "with one foot on the other side," and who therefore creates distinct identities inside her. Freshwater is a crisp representation of an unusual way of viewing the world, one that sheds light on how we all form our identities. It is unsettling, heartbreaking, dark, and powerful.

Ada is a disturbed newborn who causes her family much distress when she is born in the southern part of Nigeria. Although her parents, Saul and Saachi, were successful in praying her into being, it soon becomes apparent that something went horribly wrong as she develops into a turbulent and broken youngster. Ada's group of self gains strength and agency as she transfers to America for college and matures. A horrific attack causes her other identities, Asụghara and Saint Vincent, to crystallise. Ada's existence descends into darkness and peril as these identities—now hedonistic, now protective—take over while Ada recedes into the background of her own consciousness.

Freshwater, which heralds the birth of a powerful new literary voice, slays with savage fury and serpentine elegance. It is narrated by the different personalities inside Ada and is based on the author's reality.